However, during a civil trial the Adams family brought against Custer last month, a federal judge called PBSO’s investigation into the shooting “shoddy” and “a disgrace.”

That trial ended in a mistrial when the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict.

After the trial, the Adams family sent a letter to Aronberg requesting he re-open the investigation. The letter pointed out the judge’s comments as one of the reasons they felt a new investigation was needed.

In his return letter today, Aronberg referenced the judge’s opinion, calling it inadmissible in court. He then went on to say if the PBSO investigation was “shoddy,” that’s not a reason to re-open his investigation.

“Our prosecutions do not get stronger with evidence of a deficient investigation,” Aronberg wrote. “Quite the contrary, our cases become weaker and harder to prosecute if there are problems with an investigation.”

Aronberg said in his letter he would not re-open the case unless new evidence comes to light.

Late Friday afternoon, the mother of Seth Adams, Lydia Adams, released a statement slamming the State Attorney’s decision.

“To give no credibility to a senior federal judge’s view on PBSO’s inadequate investigation demonstrates an alignment with the sheriff’s office when there should be separation of powers. This shows a lack of integrity and a miscarriage of justice on behalf of Seth.”